Flight Tickets to Christchurch airport

Discover Christchurch

Flights to Christchurch

Sobriquet as the ‘Garden City’, Christchurch is New Zealand’s third most populous city and located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, set on the Canterbury Plains. The city was named Christchurch on 27th March 1848 by the Canterbury Association. Avon River which once flowed through the center of the city has now remained confined to an urban park. The city was officially declared as the oldest established city in New Zealand by Royal Charter on 31 July 1856. The elevation of the city ranges from 0 meters to 920 meters and a total of 362,000 people live here (according to the 2014 census). This is a multi-lingual city and the majority of people speak English. Christchurch is the second largest manufacturing center in New Zealand after Auckland and tourism also forms a significant part of the city's economy.

Overview

Christchurch International Airport is the major international airport and all the flights destined for Christchurch land at this airport. Located at a distance of 12 km northwest of the city center in the suburb of Harewood, the Christchurch International Airport currently is served by more than 10 airlines. Having a temperate climate with moderate rainfall, Christchurch has an oceanic climate with mostly warm summer often diluted by a cool sea breeze from the Northeast. Winters are very cold and the temperature can dip to 0°C at night. The city has an average of 99 days of ground frost per year and generally snowfall occurs three times per year. June to August is the winter season and is best avoided. However, if you want to enjoy snow, skiing or watersport you can consider visiting during these months. December to February experiences summer season and is the best time to enjoy the natural beauty of Christchurch. World Buskers Festival in January and Christchurch Arts Festival in August are two of the major festivals in Christchurch that see a lot of international participation.

City Attractions

When in Christchurch, tourists shave endless options of attractions and activities that they can enjoy. While the city is dotted with various architectural marvels and scenic spots, most of the adventures and activities take place out of the city. The International Antarctic center is a major draw in Christchurch is the world’s bet Antarctic attraction and a must visit. Cathedral Square is another major attraction. It is a large open square in front of the Christchurch Cathedral is the hub of the city's life.

Christchurch Gondola ride is among the most thrilling rides that take tourists 500 meters above sea level and from the top, 360° view of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean to Kaikoura can be enjoyed. Hagley Park, Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Victoria Clock Tower, Bridge of Remembrance, Bridge of Remembrance, Victoria Square, and Women's Center are also popular attractions ins Christchurch. The earthquake which hit Christchurch on 22nd February 2011 caused significant damage to many architectural heritage and these are now closed for public view.

Dolphin Swimming, picnic at Adrenalin Forest, white water rafting with Rangitata Rafts, bungee jumping, sky diving, hot air ballooning, 4 wheel driving in Akaroa with Pohatu Penguins, Sea kayaking, a jet boat trip, Para motoring and Cannoning with The Big Rock Cannoning Company are some of the activities that you should not miss on your trip to Christchurch.

Eating and Shopping

Varieties of dining and cuisine options are available for tourists planning their holiday in Christchurch. Be it world class bar, restaurant, cafe or fast food joint everything is available here and the city also has plenty in store for the budget travellers. Strawberry Fare, The Old Vicarage, Gustav’s Kitchen & Wine Bar, Cook ‘n’ with Gas, Costas Taverna Greek Restaurant, Nobanno, Kinji Japanese Restaurant, St Germain, The Lotus Heart Vegetarian Restaurant and Dux Dine are among the top restaurant in Christchurch. Smoked chicken salad, Smoky pork and watercress pie, fish and chips, White chocolate and raspberry brownie, Pumpkin and bacon soup, Smoky pork and watercress pie and Grilled fish and Thai spiced lentils are some of the major dishes that tourists should enjoy here.

At Christchurch, you can shop till you drop. From glamorous malls to high end boutiques to branded outlets and traditional market, there is everything to please tourists of all budgets. Westfield Riccarton, Northlands, The Palms and South City are the best malls in Christchurch. The stretch from Cathedral Square, along New Regent Street is filled with small stalls and cute shop selling almost everything from food to clothing to antiques and artifacts. Dress-Smart is the South Island's only dedicated outlet center with more than 60 stores and here you can get great clothes at cheap prices. Christchurch Farmers' Market held at Riccarton House and Artisan Market held on Sunday are the places to buy lip-smacking local produce and homemade treats.